Beckham sparks Galaxy win over 9-man RSL

TUCSON, Ariz. — David Beckham's insertion in the second half and two red cards to Ned Grabavoy and Yordany Alvarez helped the LA Galaxy to a 2-0 win over Real Salt Lake in the 2012 Desert Diamond Cup here.

LA got goals from Paolo Cardozo and Mike Magee.

Beckham received a loud ovation when he came on for Kenny Walker in the second half, and his long balls from deep midfield opened up the RSL defense several times.

But RSL were truly opened up when Grabavoy was handed a straight red after a rough tackle on Marcelo Sarvas in the 70th minute. In the 77th minute, Alvarez picked up a second yellow for a tackle on Cardozo.

A few minutes later, RSL paid the price for being down two men. After a scramble in front of the goal, Cardozo's soft rebound shot was uncharacteristically mishandled by RSL keeper Nick Rimando, who let the ball go right through his hands.

Beckham then made the undermanned RSL side pay dearly in the 87th minute. His perfect cross into the area was gorgeously side-volleyed into the net by Magee and ice the win.

Both teams are now 1-1 in the tournament. RSL next face the New England Revolution at 8 pm ET on Wednesday, February 29, followed by LA Galaxy vs. New York Red Bulls. Both matches will be streamed on MLSsoccer.com Channel 1.